Navigation: Jump to content areas:


Pro Quality. Fan Perspective.
Login-facebook
Around SBN: Miikka Kiprusoff Wins 300th Game, Buffalo Crushes Boston

Can It All Be So Simple - Game 5 Reaction and Thoughts

If what you say is true, the Shaolin and the Wu Tang could be dangerous

You've probably seen all of the recaps and box scores you need to by this point, so let's get to the meat of it-

  • While all the mainstream press, including Wyshynski, is declaring Dustin Byfuglilen the second coming after finally getting the better of Chris Pronger, that simply isn't the case...at least not entirely. Yes, Buff had a fantastic game with a great stat line and one thunderous hit on Pronger that all televises and publishes well, but by no means did Dustin Byfuglien put this team on his back and will it to victory. This was a depth win, plain and simple.

    While Pronger is unequivocally a fuckwit, he was right in stating in his post-game presser that the reason for his game 5 emergence is that Buff "is certainly well rested", and I'm inclined to agree. In the first four games of the series, we saw couldn't-give-less-of-a-shit, regular season Buff out there against Pronger, who was willing to do everything to stop him, rules be damned, and greatly diminished Byfuglien's will to compete. In getting regular (read: easier) shifts against the likes of Braydon Coburn, Kimmo Timonen, et al, whom he faced far more frequently, Buff's balls certainly got a lot bigger out there. His first goal he was allowed to stand untouched at the top of the crease because Pronger was in the box. Again, this is taking nothing away from what he did on the ice, but it's just irritating to me to see this scenario get conflated to something it's not.
  • And while we're talking about Pronger, yes his -5 and -19 CORSI, along with the fact that he was on the ice for 6 of the Hawks goals and in the box for the other one is all hilarious, clearly the worst game of his career, so don't think it's going to happen again on Wednesday. Say whatever you want about his tactics and presence, the fact of the matter is that he's a hell of a hockey player, and won't let this happen again.
  • That being said, it's really amazing what happens when you make him skate, rather than just let him punish forwards at the top of the crease, isn't it? We, along with numerous other blogs, called for the top line to be broken up in order to force Laviolette to choose where to use Pronger, and he chose wrong pretty much every time last night.
  • Any time the Hawks want to contain Ville Leino is fine by me.
  • After seeing replays of it, the Timonen goal should have been blown dead with Scott Hartnell interfering with Niemi, but that doesn't change the fact that that puck needed to be out of the zone.
  • Niemi also HAS to cover that first goal by the way. Inexcusable.
  • Patrick Sharp has been the most consistent Hawk forward for this entire playoff run, and his contributions in again moving back to center will hopefully not be overshadowed. Both his touch pass to spring Andrew Ladd prior to the Kane goal and Sharp's own marker were things of absolute beauty.
  • Call me an apologist, but despite being saddled with a -3, I thought Marian Hossa was very effective last night, as he gave Jonathan Toews far more room to operate than he had when he was with Kane and Buff.
  • The Hawks score two power play goals and don't allow one from the Flyers and win? Who'd have thought that would work?
  • One more to go, and it will be the most difficult task for our Men of Four Feathers to date. Lavvy has yet to tip his hand as to his starting goaltender for Wednesday, but if the Hawks put forth another effort like this, it won't make a difference. One more.

Comment 1113 comments  |  0 recs  | 

Do you like this story?

Comments

Display:

I thought that

Harnell was in the crease on the 2nd goal. Just didn’t understand how there was zero review. I have seen less reviewed, like the Hawks 3rd goal on Friday that was reviewed for some reason.

As I sit here typing this, I cannot believe that this team is 1 win away from achieving what we all want so badly.

Go Hawks!!!!

by niuhuskie224 on Jun 7, 2010 10:36 AM CDT reply actions  

The officiating in this series hasn't been something to write home about

That’s for sure.

RIP Ronnie James Dio (July 10, 1942 - May 16, 2010).

by Ace Venom on Jun 7, 2010 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions  

While he was in the crease...

… he was clearly knocked intot he crease. No complaints there, legal hit, but he was in the crease due to a Blackhawk hit, which means that GTI can’t be called unless he does something else to interfere.

You might call being slow to get up, but I wouldn’t want to pop up in a situation where people are slinging rubber at the net. Hell, if you watch the play, his head almost gets taken off by the puck.

As a note: Commenting here rather than reading through becuase there’s just too many comments. That was an awful, awful game. The flyers had no energy, no oomph, and paid for it. Dearly. Lavvy needs to put a boot up each and every one of their asses over the next 3 days.

by VorAbaddon on Jun 7, 2010 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

No, he was not "knocked" into the crease.

He dove towards the crease, and during the play, made slight incidental contact with (I think) Seabrook, but the contact did not change his trajectory or the control he had once he was on the ice.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 9:25 PM CDT up reply actions  

this

he was not knocked into the crease, at all. he dove. locks first.

by Skags on Jun 7, 2010 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

He also was on top of Niemi’s stick, so that it fell out of his hands when he tried to get his blocker up on the shot. If that was on the glove side, Niemi might have been able to at least attempt a save since he would have been able to reach over Hartnell. But on the blocker side like it was, there was nothing that Niemi could have done. It wasn’t a penalty, but it was certainly goalie interference in the sense that Niemi was physically prevented from making the save by an opposing player. No goal.

by Razzberry on Jun 7, 2010 11:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

Nemo needs to stand up for his space in the crease.

Hjammer pointed right at hartnell as the shot went in but Niemi did nothing so he just accepted it and moved on. I wouldnt mind seeing Niemi look right at the refs and say “What the fuck is this guy doing laying in the crease?”. At the same time, I kinda like the no complaining attitude (which may be more of a “I cant speak english well enough to file a complaint with the refs” type of attitude).
no goal. someone tell them to shut the fuck up about briere’s eyeball.

"...can i have a glass of whiskey and a slice of bread?"

by west_fulton on Jun 8, 2010 7:48 AM CDT up reply actions  

Totally agree

If I recall correctly, even if you ARE knocked into the crease by a defending player, you are to make all haste in getting out of the crease, and not impede the goaltender in any way while extricating yourself from the crease. Hartnell laid there like Ron Jeremy having an after-shag cigarette while that shot came in.

And I agree. Briere’s eye vs. repeated vicious crosschecks from nearly every orange-sweatered idiot on the ice, including the one that sent Hossa to the lockeroom? Not even close to being back to even.

by artroland on Jun 8, 2010 12:52 PM CDT up reply actions  

I think the last time Niemi

went to a ref was when the puck was lost in his jersey. Maybe he’s afraid of getting molested again.

Maybe, just once, someone will call me 'Sir' without adding, 'You're making a scene."

by cdz3210 on Jun 8, 2010 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions  

Tarvitsen aikuinen

I need an adult

How would you like a job where, every time you make a mistake, a big red light goes on and 18,000 people boo?

by stacie7 on Jun 8, 2010 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

Is it wrong,

that I giggled at this?

/Note unceasing sarcastic laughter in background.

by burpchelischili on Jun 8, 2010 11:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

Is it wrong

that I don’t get it?

‽ ⅋ ‽

by K_Dog on Jun 9, 2010 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions  

I need an adult

is tarvitsen aikuinen in Finnish – Niemi needs an adult so he doen’t get molested by the refs again

How would you like a job where, every time you make a mistake, a big red light goes on and 18,000 people boo?

by stacie7 on Jun 9, 2010 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions  

lol...ahh, thank you

I should have realized it was a direct translation. I thought it was an obscure reference I wasn’t getting.

‽ ⅋ ‽

by K_Dog on Jun 9, 2010 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'm never obscure

that would cause way too much thinking on my part. I’m more like captain obvious.

How would you like a job where, every time you make a mistake, a big red light goes on and 18,000 people boo?

by stacie7 on Jun 9, 2010 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

this is why

everybody needs a babelfish

by VerStig on Jun 9, 2010 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

true

Although, I don’t think babelfish translates English to Finnish…

‽ ⅋ ‽

by K_Dog on Jun 9, 2010 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions  

No review for GTI

Watch it with the jinxing!
Time for some thrillin' heroics!

by shinkicker on Jun 7, 2010 10:42 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions  

Right

this was the case for Buff’s third goal in game 3 against Vancouver. The goal couldn’t be overturned based on interference.

Ditto for CNS

by Hack on Jun 7, 2010 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions  

Is it a reviewable play?

I don’t think goaltender interference is, but I am admittedly talking out my ass here.

by Brian C on Jun 7, 2010 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'd known that and forgotten

but boldmatter reminded me of it last night.

Watch it with the jinxing!
Time for some thrillin' heroics!

by shinkicker on Jun 7, 2010 10:55 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions  

I wasn't on the GDT until near the end of the game

so I don’t know if anyone was complaining about that goal. I was going nuts at home wondering how that wasn’t a textbook example of goalie interference. Glad McClure pointed that out – because he is NEVER wrong.

Turds!
Spaulding, how many times have I spoken to you about your language?

by ChicagoNativeSon on Jun 7, 2010 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions  

Certainly seemed like GTI to me, watching at home on my high horse.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions  

my horse is higher (or so I’ve been told)

Turds!
Spaulding, how many times have I spoken to you about your language?

by ChicagoNativeSon on Jun 7, 2010 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

but my long torso makes up for the difference in hands

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions  

Is it a Palomino??

Turds!
Spaulding, how many times have I spoken to you about your language?

by ChicagoNativeSon on Jun 7, 2010 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

looking at the highlights today, I'd rather have to agree

in the regular season, that is a “no goal” play. This is not the regular season anymore – and bad officiating is apparently now mandatory, progressively worse as the series progress through the rounds.

Confusion will be my epitaph.

by krome on Jun 7, 2010 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions  

Inconsistent officiating

I absolutely despise the fact that there is one set of standards for the regular season and another set for the playoffs.

by Badgerdano on Jun 7, 2010 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions  

I wasn't sure if it was or wasn't

at the time it happened, i thought it WAS intererence, but didn’t really know the actual rule for GI, and didn’t know if he was pushed in there or not and just slow in getting up. At the end of the day, it didn’t end up mattering anyway.

by puppetmasterp on Jun 7, 2010 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions  

just slow in getting up

Of course he was slow getting up. I’d be slow getting up in that situation too…

by DaleHalas on Jun 7, 2010 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions  

This rule makes me wonder

why GTI isn’t reviewable?
“(viii) The video review process shall be permitted to assist the referees in determining the legitimacy of all potential goals (e.g. to ensure they are "good hockey goals").”

End result is the same, but proper calls are always appreciated.

"Half the game is mental; the other half is being mental."

by Polymath7 on Jun 7, 2010 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

It's amazing what this team looks like....

When they actually move there feet, fight for the puck and finish off hits. That being said, ONE to go. GO HAWKS!!!

Who's leg do I have to hump to get a drink around here?-Brian

by fliphawk4 on Jun 7, 2010 10:37 AM CDT reply actions  

It's amazing what this team looks like

when they finally win the special teams battle

Ditto for CNS

by Hack on Jun 7, 2010 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions  

The Flyers fans are all over the refs for not calling Keith for a high stick on Briere

And they’re probably right.

But I’d really love for them to remember the Koho that Campbell took in the face earlier in the game.

In my opinion, it’s a wash.

by GenPabloSecobar on Jun 7, 2010 10:40 AM CDT reply actions  

Pretty much my thoughts too

I’m not saying that two wrongs make a right, but I’m saving my outrage for a series where both sides don’t have so much to complain about.

by Brian C on Jun 7, 2010 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions  

not calling Keith for a high stick on Briere

I read both fansites on that play. Both were arguing what happened. You had to have a slow replay to actually see it. I’m not going to criticize Ref’s for missing a call like that when they have to call it in real time.

And yes, I think Goalie Interference needs to be reviewable by the video review guys. Its too hard to call in real time as well. Remember its not “was there goalie interference” its “who caused the collision.”

I’m not somebody that really cares about individual penalty calls. I only really care about the percentages. The Flyers have averaged one more penalty a game in the playoffs then the Hawks. In this series there has been so many more calls against the Hawks that it will probably never even out. So the Flyers have nothing to complain about concerning penalty calls…

by DaleHalas on Jun 7, 2010 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions  

it will even out if they let the hawks have a power play the entire game 6…

HAWKS! ... that is all

by RLWiener on Jun 7, 2010 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions  

Full speed

and even some views at slow speed, that looked like the puck hitting Breire’s face. The puck did also seem to change direction in midair, which would lend credence to the puck hitting him.

by northernsails on Jun 7, 2010 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions  

There were

two blatant cross-checkings in last nights game that went un-called. One was on Hossa that knocked him out of the game briefly. And I forget who the other one was on, but it was Pronger who committed the cross-check (to no one’s surprise). We were owed a non-call at that point.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." -- Alvin Dark

by gwood on Jun 7, 2010 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

pronger crosschecking?

wwwwhhhhhaaaaaaa? never!

HAWKS! ... that is all

by RLWiener on Jun 7, 2010 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions  

On Ladd

I believe.

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

I think you're right

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." -- Alvin Dark

by gwood on Jun 7, 2010 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions  

Sure they are, rightfully so...

But refs also missed the one on Campbell. And how about Hossa having to pick up his spleen after a cross check…

by jscktt on Jun 7, 2010 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions  

I think they are more pissed because it would have been a major due to blood

More chance to score goals and tie it up. I can see where they are coming from, but I’m just really glad that one went our way.

How would you like a job where, every time you make a mistake, a big red light goes on and 18,000 people boo?

by stacie7 on Jun 7, 2010 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions  

yeah

almost as bad as Bolland in the box

by northernsails on Jun 7, 2010 1:51 PM CDT up reply actions  

we just like dick in the box

and I mean Pronger you gutter minded individuals

How would you like a job where, every time you make a mistake, a big red light goes on and 18,000 people boo?

by stacie7 on Jun 7, 2010 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions  

Step one: cut a hole in the box!

Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.

by Powrfwd37 on Jun 7, 2010 10:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

Step two:

Put your junk in the box!

‽ ⅋ ‽

by K_Dog on Jun 7, 2010 10:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

That's teamwork

in your eye.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 10:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

At least one Flyers fan

agreed with me that at full it looked like the puck hit him, not the stick. Apparently it was a low angle replay from behind the goal that clearly showed the stick hitting him.

I think I was busy miming the fountain of blood that spewed from SOB’s head back during the Vancouver series and didn’t see it.

Watch it with the jinxing!
Time for some thrillin' heroics!

by shinkicker on Jun 7, 2010 10:49 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions  

Exactly. It's a wash.

So the Hawks need to do what they did last night on Wednesday night — don’t worry about the dirty, if you will, play of Philadelphia. They just need to play THEIR game, and Lord Stanley’s Cup will be in the Windy City for the first time in 49 years.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." -- Alvin Dark

by NDCubbie on Jun 7, 2010 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

Keith's on Briere was worse

and we’d be upset about it too i it was us. I don’t even want to know what Briere’s eye looks like this morning.

by puppetmasterp on Jun 7, 2010 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions  

After hearing about what the Philly fan base

was doing to some of the Hawks fans that went out there for 3 or 4, I frankly don’t care whether he still has an eye or not. Firsthand reports from the City of Brotherly Donkeyfucking have convinced me what we all suspected all along about the collective douchery of that town. Pronger’s a perfect fit.

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions  

yeah those fan reports make me cringe

but i’m hard pressed to apply it to what the players “deserve” on the ice physically. I’d rather they get what they deserve based on how they play, and I’m not saying Briere’s always a saint….i’d just rather not say i’m okay with him maybe getting his eye poked out b/c some fans that cheer for him have behavioral issues.

by puppetmasterp on Jun 7, 2010 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah

but I have to direct my anger somewhere. I don’t really want to see anybody but Pronger any player get his eye actually poked out.

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions  

It's a little embarrassing

but I’ve been having daydreams of Buff boarding Pronger.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

Briere's eye looks like Pronger's balloon knot

And Hartnell is going to town on both right now.

PALOMINO!

Where's Al Secord when you need him?

by MrBeeg on Jun 7, 2010 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions  

You're forgetting...

Seabrook’s 7 stitches in game two. That was a non-call too.

by Beyr on Jun 7, 2010 1:53 PM CDT up reply actions  

you’re right i did forget that one as well, but was really pissed about it at the time

by puppetmasterp on Jun 7, 2010 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

maybe

but it was harder to see than Soupy’s. Soupy had the argument from a linesman who saw the whole thing go down.

by northernsails on Jun 7, 2010 1:55 PM CDT up reply actions  

Agreed

Haven’t seen them make any comments on that no-call. And how the fuck do the refs miss that when Soup’s got the fucking puck?? Where are the refs looking?

by Chris Roberts on Jun 7, 2010 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions  

Do you have Cousin Campbell on speed dial too

just in case one of our guys needs the wheel of justice to spin in our favor?

How would you like a job where, every time you make a mistake, a big red light goes on and 18,000 people boo?

by stacie7 on Jun 7, 2010 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

of course Cousin Campbell knows what to do

I actually just sent him two brand new Wheels of Justice. One specifically for when he’s deciding for the Flyers (choices are varying numbers to signal the number of games they can be suspended for) and one specifically for the Hawks (just a big red circle for “No Suspension”.

But when it was suggested to him that Toews v. Kane seems likely to become a sidebar to every future international hockey tournament, he smiled and said: "I'd like us to win something together, too."

(Tweets @ChiBlackhawks and blogs at Blackhawks Down Low.)

by chiblackhawks on Jun 7, 2010 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

It is of my humble opinion that… Toews and Hossa and Kopecky, while they didn’t score, dominated the majority of the game when out their together.

by Dranearian on Jun 7, 2010 10:45 AM CDT reply actions  

They did in my humble opinion as well

Though I have to say, Toews and the Slovaks doesn’t have quite the ring to it that Sharp and the Slovacks had. We’ll have to get used to the new lead singer centerman.

by Katherine215 on Jun 7, 2010 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions  

What about Captain and the Slovaks?

Watch it with the jinxing!
Time for some thrillin' heroics!

by shinkicker on Jun 7, 2010 11:18 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions   1 recs

Well, we can go with...

THK 182

or

Capt Horsa Kop

(although I do like Seriously Slovakian)

Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.

by Powrfwd37 on Jun 7, 2010 10:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

THK 182

I like it. Reminds of Star Wars and George Lucas’s first film THX 1138. A perfect connection to a potentially high-powered line.

by northernsails on Jun 7, 2010 11:27 PM CDT up reply actions  

But is also sounds like

Blink 182, which means it’s defective.

(And Turk 182 was a barely mediocre movie.)

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 8, 2010 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yes, on both points - to a degree.

Add up their jersey numbers.

Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.

by Powrfwd37 on Jun 8, 2010 8:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

The THX similarity didn't escape me.

It all started with a little math problem though.

Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.

by Powrfwd37 on Jun 8, 2010 8:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

Leino

For all the talk of superstition around here and our resident superstition Nazis, I haven’t heard any talk of the Karma we may or may not be receiving for either a game preview or game wrap taking delight in the fact that Leino was finally a failure of the Wings system….I think whoever wrote that would take it back.

Compadres! It is imperative that we crush the freedom fighters before the start of the rainy season......And by that I mean it’s time for the worker of the week award!"

by HjammerTime on Jun 7, 2010 10:45 AM CDT reply actions  

With the way

Leino been playing, I’m really happy that he was traded to an Eastern team.

Maybe, just once, someone will call me 'Sir' without adding, 'You're making a scene."

by cdz3210 on Jun 7, 2010 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions  

Not only is he not in the West anymore

But he’s not on the Scum anymore. Double plus.

Tremendously tremendous!

Luongo's tears feed my soul.

by allyouyounghockeyplayersoutthere on Jun 7, 2010 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions  

he has been playing unbelieveably well

I was expecting and hoping he would be the Leino we all knew and loved from Detroit, but he has sure proved me wrong there. He’s just been so consistently solid, and played well last night even if it wasn’t one of his “better” games this series.

by puppetmasterp on Jun 7, 2010 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions  

he was good for the Wings during the postseason too

but didn’t do much during the regular season afterward. I don’t know, maybe that’s just what he does.

But when it was suggested to him that Toews v. Kane seems likely to become a sidebar to every future international hockey tournament, he smiled and said: "I'd like us to win something together, too."

(Tweets @ChiBlackhawks and blogs at Blackhawks Down Low.)

by chiblackhawks on Jun 7, 2010 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

Hmmm....

Didn’t do much during the regular season and having a great post season. Leino sounds like the Finnish version of Buff.

Maybe, just once, someone will call me 'Sir' without adding, 'You're making a scene."

by cdz3210 on Jun 7, 2010 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

ding ding ding ding!!!

exactly what I was going for, haha.

But when it was suggested to him that Toews v. Kane seems likely to become a sidebar to every future international hockey tournament, he smiled and said: "I'd like us to win something together, too."

(Tweets @ChiBlackhawks and blogs at Blackhawks Down Low.)

by chiblackhawks on Jun 7, 2010 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

The Finnish McNugget?

"What doesn't kill us makes us stronger."

by Byfuglie33 on Jun 8, 2010 8:32 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hey,

are you gonna Finnish that McNugget?

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 8, 2010 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions  

Don't say anything

if you can’t criticize!

Actually, I applaud you; this is a wonderfully pessimistic post, which is exactly what both the Hawks and their fans need to be thinking right now. The proper mindset to have is that the Hawks are down 3-2 in the series going into Game 6 in Philly.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 10:47 AM CDT reply actions  

Agree on all points

Hossa -3 really does not tell what he did to help open this game up for the rest.

ART.I§8-11; AM I-XXVII
James Madison is my Hero!

by Toews-makes-funny-faces on Jun 7, 2010 10:48 AM CDT reply actions  

Ladd was really good last night. Two full days of rest should get him in better shape.

by aeroplane on Jun 7, 2010 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

Lavvy have an answer to Q's line changes?

Or does this end Wed, now that the lads have found their skating legs again?

by jscktt on Jun 7, 2010 10:54 AM CDT reply actions  

Hoping it ends Wednesday.

Don’t know if I can take a Game 7.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." -- Alvin Dark

by NDCubbie on Jun 7, 2010 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions  

it's tough to expect the same offensive outburst

from the new lines in game 6. Phlly will be able to get the matchups they like most of the time. I’m looking for Niemi to be the hero in game 6.

Ditto for CNS

by Hack on Jun 7, 2010 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions  

While Philly will be able to get the match-ups, I think what we saw last night was the end of the Philly defense myth. With that top line broken up, more size with Kane, more size with Toews, Buff still with good passers, Lavvy will be hard pressed to defend against the Chicago attack. Their only hope may be to outscore Chicago on Wednesday (which could always happen).

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions  

I have to agree with Meeshak on his points here.

We’d all been crying throughout games 2, 3, and 4 to break up DDN – though we love them so – and make Lavvy make a decision.

Its really freaking easy, when you have Puckhogger as your top D line, to say "Hmmm… They’ve got Toews, Kane, and Byfuglien on one line. They’ve all been pretty sick, all playoffs long. Put Puckhogger out there with them at all times possible.

Its not so easy to do, when one of them is out there at all times.

Q’s line generator struck oil in Game 5. I say you stay with that, until Lavvy finds an answer. He doesn’t have long to come up with an effective one.

I look forward to Wednesday night with guarded optimism

Let’s Finnish Them – and throw up a big ’ol FU to the Philly crowd on Wednesday night.

The Chalice will be in attendance.

Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.

by Powrfwd37 on Jun 7, 2010 10:26 PM CDT up reply actions  

Your last sentence sent shivers down my spine!

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 10:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

You should have seen me trying to type it!

Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.

by Powrfwd37 on Jun 8, 2010 8:45 PM CDT up reply actions  

"The Chalice will be in attendance."

Damn, they really are in the STANLEY CUP FINALS!! It wasn’t a dream.

by Katherine215 on Jun 7, 2010 10:42 PM CDT up reply actions  

sleeping's going to be rough the next few nights

Watch it with the jinxing!
Time for some thrillin' heroics!

by shinkicker on Jun 7, 2010 10:44 PM CDT up reply actions  

Aside from Prickface/whoever

do they have anything close? If Buff/Eager/Ladd continue to pulverize all of their D-men, they cant be very effective.

by northernsails on Jun 7, 2010 11:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

BSH loves Kimmo

I was skeptical, but from what I can tell, the guy has been rock steady- almost always makes the right decision.

Gentlemen! I have invented...this thing!

by cliffkoroll on Jun 8, 2010 7:52 AM CDT up reply actions  

Holy, ya. I’d thought about finishing and all that, but it hadn’t yet occurred to me that the Cup will be there watching tomorrow.

www.mjt.org

by ChicoMaki on Jun 8, 2010 7:08 AM CDT up reply actions  

"line generator struck oil" struck a nerve

Q- please don’t overcoach, matchy-uppy-on-the-fly-wise. Rolling four two-way lines with this set-up oughtta work.

I hope 2,4,7,51 got some rest. Spot Sopel here and there (and on PK). Boynton/Hendry mostly be ready in case there’s a hand-shaking ceremony.

Nemo due? Game 5 was another well-timed turd from our fine Finnish friend.

I love the Hawks chances tomorrow- not so much if it goes to 7.

Urgency. Desperation. 60 minutes.

Gentlemen! I have invented...this thing!

by cliffkoroll on Jun 8, 2010 8:01 AM CDT up reply actions  

I don't mind if he wants to matchup D pairings

to Philly O lines, but the balance on the top three offensive lines for the Hawks right now should be able to matchup with anyone. I don’t want to give up more transition opportunities just to get O line matchup happy on the road.

by Scott13 on Jun 8, 2010 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions  

not saying it can't end on Wed

but Lavy has so far proven well adept at getting the match ups he wants on home ice. and by that i mean incredibly good at it.

by puppetmasterp on Jun 7, 2010 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions  

I think Lavvy is a dipshit of a head coach
  1. he started Carcillo over J v R in not one but TWO games for some inconceivable reason, which speaks for itself
  1. he pulled the goalie WAY to early last night- he completely choked. The Flyers had a lot of momentum and confidence. They would have generated some opportunities even strength. If you’re Lavvy, you wait and see if you can score ES and really pressure the Hawks and wait until a minute left in the game then pull him. With 2:30 minutes left, he pretty much sealed their fate and when the Hawks scored the EN it sucked all the momentum out of Philly. That was a very stupid move. I’d like to see more of that.
  1. Pulling Leighton after 3 goals. He’s created a goal tending controversy with only two more potential games to play. I guess a thank you is in order.

Basically, he can talk all he wants about confidence and resilience, but nothing he’s actually doing inspires any of that. He looks like he’s panicked and unsure of his team. So to answer your question: No. He will not have an answer for Q. Even if he acted like he had his shit together he wouldn’t have an answer for Q because honestly Q doesn’t have an answer for Q. He touches shit and it works when everyone else is like… WTF R U DOING Q? See: Buff on defense or putting Kop with Hossa and Toews. I can’t explain it but I’ll take it.

by Skags on Jun 7, 2010 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions  

ZING!

Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.

by Powrfwd37 on Jun 7, 2010 10:28 PM CDT up reply actions  

i laughed pretty hard

it was a ben eager outline

Hossa's Attorney says:
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!

by BigCSouthside on Jun 7, 2010 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

This post begs for this image

"I have only space enough to add: against the assault of desperate pandas nothing can stand."
-ChicoMaki (channeling Mark Twain)

by HungryHungryPanda on Jun 7, 2010 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

A whopping 8 minutes

Holy fuck, I’m lazy

"I have only space enough to add: against the assault of desperate pandas nothing can stand."
-ChicoMaki (channeling Mark Twain)

by HungryHungryPanda on Jun 7, 2010 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions  

You're just an Ovechkin fanboy

Turds!
Spaulding, how many times have I spoken to you about your language?

by ChicagoNativeSon on Jun 7, 2010 2:59 PM CDT up reply actions  

Nice!

But coming from a Sopel fanboy…

"I have only space enough to add: against the assault of desperate pandas nothing can stand."
-ChicoMaki (channeling Mark Twain)

by HungryHungryPanda on Jun 7, 2010 3:03 PM CDT up reply actions  

Watch it,

Master Sergeant Sopel might be looking…

/Note unceasing sarcastic laughter in background.

by burpchelischili on Jun 7, 2010 10:52 PM CDT up reply actions  

that made me giggle...

calling your own outline fail….very nice!

The less a man makes declarative statements, the less apt he is to look foolish in retrospect.

by Overserved on Jun 7, 2010 3:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

yeah i don't have a clue why he pulled Leighton

In the early 2nd, Niemi’s numbers weren’t actually that much better than Leighton’s. That too me screams of confidence issues you don’t want to be having in Game 5 of the SCF

by puppetmasterp on Jun 7, 2010 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions  

pulling the goalie entirely with that much time left in the 3rd did seem a bit overly desperate too

there are bold moves … and then there are WTF moments.

If it had worked, he’s be a genius (the great excuse for many an idiotic failure in life)

Confusion will be my epitaph.

by krome on Jun 7, 2010 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

For illustration of your last statement, see my move to Montreal.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'm kind of glad Nemo seems to have a long leash

I would hate to have the goalie controversy still hanging over our heads

How would you like a job where, every time you make a mistake, a big red light goes on and 18,000 people boo?

by stacie7 on Jun 7, 2010 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions  

to be fair

I think Q’s gone into the playoffs with the mindset that he only pulls Niemi in the event that Niemi can no longer physically stand or something. As long as he can skate, he’ll be the Hawks’ goalie.

But when it was suggested to him that Toews v. Kane seems likely to become a sidebar to every future international hockey tournament, he smiled and said: "I'd like us to win something together, too."

(Tweets @ChiBlackhawks and blogs at Blackhawks Down Low.)

by chiblackhawks on Jun 7, 2010 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

Or if the game is just lost

and he doesn’t want to risk injury (see Game 1 against Canvouver).

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

and the poor boy just needs a damn rest

think about it. This is the most consecutive games he has played. I would have been very surprised if he could have kept up the pace of the Sharks series.

How would you like a job where, every time you make a mistake, a big red light goes on and 18,000 people boo?

by stacie7 on Jun 7, 2010 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

There was a 5 day break between SCF and WCF.

Picture bloodbaths and elevator shafts
Like these murderous rhymes tight from genuine craft

by chrome on Jun 7, 2010 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions  

Quite a bit of rest

in the playoffs. No back-to-back and often more than one day off.

If we have to worry about the endurance of a mid-20s professional athlete, we got serious problems beyond a clown-shoes power play.

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

I think it goes back to that 8-3 “game” with Columbus in late March where Huet was expected to show his playoff chops and instead treated the crease like his own personal shitbowl. It seems to me that from that day forward Q must have told Niemi he was basically safe unless he actually passed away while playing.

www.mjt.org

by ChicoMaki on Jun 7, 2010 1:53 PM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

perhaps not then

Q might just leave the carcas laid out in the crease

Confusion will be my epitaph.

by krome on Jun 7, 2010 1:57 PM CDT up reply actions  

to keep

Sopel company

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

Carcillo vs JVR

Carcillo’s risk/return ratio is way higher than JVR’s, in my opinion, JVR may not be as explosive as Carcillo, but he’s less likely to blow up in your face. And he had a goal last night and 0 PIM.

Watch it with the jinxing!
Time for some thrillin' heroics!

by shinkicker on Jun 7, 2010 11:25 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions  

JVR is a dynamo, a guy who can score, and a future superstar for the American team. Carcillo is like Eager, but kind of worse.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions  

A lot worse

Size: Edge Eager
Speed: Edge Eager
Brains: OHH SHINY! (push)
Shot: Push
Puck Handling: hahaha no really.

The only thing Carcillo brings is a nonstop motor. And sometimes against some teams, that can be good. But for fucks sake, one has to wonder if Lavvy did any scouting at all prior to game 1 because little guys like Carcillo who like to hit but can’t really skate for shit are about 1000X less effective against this team than a genuine hockey player with good all around skills like J v R.

I hope he goes back to Carcillo game 6 and completes the dipshit coaching moves Tour de Philly. So it is written.

by Skags on Jun 7, 2010 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions  

That would be too much to ask for.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions  

Carcillo is like Burish

if Burish was retarded

Hossa's Attorney says:
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!

by BigCSouthside on Jun 7, 2010 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

More like

if Burish was retarded, and they cloned retarded Burish, Carcillo would the the Danny Devito retarded twin clone of retarded Burish. He should work at the zoo.

by Scott13 on Jun 7, 2010 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

or the Michael Keaton "copy of copy" clone from Multiplicity

“I like pizza”

Turds!
Spaulding, how many times have I spoken to you about your language?

by ChicagoNativeSon on Jun 7, 2010 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

Congratulations, CNS

That is the first time I’ve seen Multiplicity as a reference anywhere. LOL

by Badgerdano on Jun 7, 2010 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions  

Didn’t Fifth Feather reference it a few games ago? I’m pretty sure I saw it somewhere. Maybe it was CNS, with a one track mind.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

not sure who it was, but I think I know what you're talking about

like how a certain player would be the clone of another player if you cloned that player 30 times or something.

But when it was suggested to him that Toews v. Kane seems likely to become a sidebar to every future international hockey tournament, he smiled and said: "I'd like us to win something together, too."

(Tweets @ChiBlackhawks and blogs at Blackhawks Down Low.)

by chiblackhawks on Jun 7, 2010 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

I think that was it!

But when it was suggested to him that Toews v. Kane seems likely to become a sidebar to every future international hockey tournament, he smiled and said: "I'd like us to win something together, too."

(Tweets @ChiBlackhawks and blogs at Blackhawks Down Low.)

by chiblackhawks on Jun 7, 2010 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

I said...

It was the first time I have seen it, not in the history of mankind. Geeze, read Fifth Feather? I can hardly get anything done at work and at home with just SCH. LOL

by Badgerdano on Jun 7, 2010 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

ditto!

Turds!
Spaulding, how many times have I spoken to you about your language?

by ChicagoNativeSon on Jun 7, 2010 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions  

but FF only puts up

like one post per game! total!

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

and the only reason i said that was because it was such a recent use in Blackhawks playoff blogging. i thought it might have even been CNS, but it seems i was correct with my first hunch.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions  

Even if it was CNS though,

I automatically ignore his comments so I would have missed it anyway. LOL

by Badgerdano on Jun 7, 2010 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions  

Dear fucking asshole sitting above me after game 5...

Turds!
Spaulding, how many times have I spoken to you about your language?

by ChicagoNativeSon on Jun 7, 2010 2:32 PM CDT up reply actions  

Me?? Never...

I’m just an equal opportunity instigator.

Turds!
Spaulding, how many times have I spoken to you about your language?

by ChicagoNativeSon on Jun 7, 2010 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

Would that be like the Coach's version of the Eager Hat Trick?

Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.

by Powrfwd37 on Jun 7, 2010 10:32 PM CDT up reply actions  

JVR brings so much more skill to the ice

and is so much less of a liability. yeah there’s the “Carcillo brings energy” argument, but its not always good energy….i think JVR really should more respect in this debate. But then again, i just think Carcillo is a poor excuse for a human being.

by puppetmasterp on Jun 7, 2010 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions  

See?

Goalie controversy in Game 6 of the SCF: Flyers Coach hasn’t named starter.

Laviolette said Monday he didn’t reveal his starting goalie because he hasn’t talked to his players yet. He gave the Flyers the day off so they’d have time to regroup before Wednesday’s Game 6 against Chicago.

I’m sorry but that’s just idiotic. Confident my ass.

by Skags on Jun 7, 2010 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions  

the media wouldn't know what to do without a little drama in the series

How would you like a job where, every time you make a mistake, a big red light goes on and 18,000 people boo?

by stacie7 on Jun 7, 2010 11:55 AM CDT up reply actions  

I agree- we need something to talk about for two days

But you gotta give them something else. This is self inflicted and not necessary, especially if you’re a confident and resilient team led by a coach who knows what he’s doing. It smacks of panic.

by Skags on Jun 7, 2010 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

Last Goalie Standing

It’s the new Stanley Cup Final reality series.

How would you like a job where, every time you make a mistake, a big red light goes on and 18,000 people boo?

by stacie7 on Jun 7, 2010 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

they'd make some drama up

But when it was suggested to him that Toews v. Kane seems likely to become a sidebar to every future international hockey tournament, he smiled and said: "I'd like us to win something together, too."

(Tweets @ChiBlackhawks and blogs at Blackhawks Down Low.)

by chiblackhawks on Jun 7, 2010 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

I suspect the decision has been made

and the team knows who will be in net. This “controversy” will keep the press busy focusing on something that probably isn’t an issue.

Maybe, just once, someone will call me 'Sir' without adding, 'You're making a scene."

by cdz3210 on Jun 7, 2010 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

It's an issue if you're the goalie

and you think your coach and maybe your team doesn’t have confidence in you going into a game that could end your season. It’s especially an issue if you’re Leighton and you wanted to prove to your former team that they made a mistake by letting you go, yet you’ve been yanked twice in their building. Leighton’s mental state can’t be rock solid and holding out here doesn’t help him.

by Scott13 on Jun 7, 2010 1:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

I agree with cdz3210....

…The Flyers probably already know who will be in net, including whatever goalie that is (it is funny to imagine the whole team knowing EXCEPT Leighton and Boucher) so there is really is no controversy….just something to occupy the feeble minds of the media instead of asking what “exactly” went wrong in game 5 for the 15,000th time.

The less a man makes declarative statements, the less apt he is to look foolish in retrospect.

by Overserved on Jun 7, 2010 3:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

I have no problem with SCF mindgames

except when about the only real purpose they serve is to make the one playing them look like a dolt.

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 3:22 PM CDT up reply actions  

Can't you just see Q

asking his players who they think should sit?

Even better, which lines they’d like to be on??!!

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 2:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

Con Smythe

Any thoughts on Con Smythe watch after 5 games? I have a huge man crush on Toews but I’ve become unsure after the first few games in this series.

by Fightin Werds on Jun 7, 2010 10:58 AM CDT reply actions  

When the Hawks win...

…I’m actually starting to think Sharp may have taken it from him.

by GenPabloSecobar on Jun 7, 2010 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions  

I tend to think that this case has been made pretty strongly also.

I still think that Toews is the odds-on favorite though. The NHL would love to say “Look – best forward in the Olympic tournament, AND leads his team to a SC Championship while capturing the Conn Smythe!”

Move over Sindey.

Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.

by Powrfwd37 on Jun 7, 2010 11:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

Not to be rude (seriously)

but who cares?? If the Hawks win the Cup, Eager can deliver the frickin Conn Smythe trophy to Pronger with a bag of pucks in it for all I care.

Turds!
Spaulding, how many times have I spoken to you about your language?

by ChicagoNativeSon on Jun 7, 2010 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions  

I actually hope this happens. I really, really care about this scenario now.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions  

Because I'd rather be discussing that in June than not discussing it?

I see your point…I have three blank jerseys at home because I can never decide who to put on the back of the sweater because the front is more important to me.

But apparently people do care, because they’re answering the question.

by GenPabloSecobar on Jun 7, 2010 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions  

I have a suggestion

for at least two of those jerseys

Lu
Nabby

and yeah, we have two full days to kill. Why not discuss Conn Smythe? What makes that topic interesting is how many guys, on either team deserve it.

by aeroplane on Jun 7, 2010 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions  

I agree with you

It’s one of the perks of June hockey. And if things go well Wednesday, I doubt we’d take the time to discuss it. And as much as I love watching Pronger get Pronger’d, I can’t do it for 2+ full days. Other topics are needed.

by Katherine215 on Jun 7, 2010 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions  

I suppose discusss Con Smythe

is easier when you’re not a fan of the team and still heavily invested in the outcome of the game but I don’t see it as much different than discussing who played best after each game. Over and over we talk about how good Hossa looks and I completely agree. He’s been a huge part of the teams success in the entire playoffs but I’m merely asking who on the team has perhaps been our most crucial player throughout the playoffs.

Also yes, you’ve stated the obvious that the Stanley Cup is our huge number 1 goal, however I also hope that if we win it that I see who I feel is…worthy of the Con Smythe to get it. I’d wouldnt be a big fan of Buff winning it considering all the media that he’s generated for the last 3 playoff series’, not to mention performing for half of each series.

by Fightin Werds on Jun 7, 2010 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions  

when you say...

buff performed in only half of each series…do you take three games from the SCF’s and move them to the S.J. series?

Buff and Niemi were integral parts to many games. Sopes was HUGE against Nashville. Toews was a beast vs. Vancouver.

Truth is, there hasn’t been many players on the Hawks that have brought their A-game every single night. For that reason I pick Teeth to be our Conn Smythe candidate.

I for one would not be disappointed if mvp went to Buff if he has another huge game for us on Wednesday. I’m not certain that the Hawks make it to this point without him and he’s been a huge difference maker in enough games that I’d be okay with it.

On the Philly side, they too have many candidates. Breire, Prongs, Richards (although he’s been MIA in the finals…)

by aeroplane on Jun 7, 2010 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

You think Richards has been MIA?

He’s scared me every time he’s been on the ice, in the same way as Toews. I’m curious what other people think.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'll take a stab

To me, he’s a talented guy but not quite in the same way as Toews- close, but not quite and in the end an inch may as well be a mile.

He’s Bizzaro Captain Marvel.

by Skags on Jun 7, 2010 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions  

i thought he was MIA in Games 1 & 2

but got REALLY dangerous in the games in Philly. He wasn’t very noticable last night, but neither was anyone for Philly other than Leino, maybe Hartnell (and of course Briere b/c of that bright beacon of a shiner).

by puppetmasterp on Jun 7, 2010 12:35 PM CDT up reply actions  

he’s insanely dangerous.

but we’ve done a fine job of neutralizing him and his line for the most part. Not so much with their 2nd and 3rd lines.

by aeroplane on Jun 7, 2010 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions  

I am scared of him

he is too good not to be wary of.

/Note unceasing sarcastic laughter in background.

by burpchelischili on Jun 7, 2010 11:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

Interestingly

I may have this wrong, but I think the C&B guys were saying Bolland line is playing almost even on scoring chances (which was not the case when he was shutting down Thornton). So, it seems like at least thus far, they’ve done alright.

I’m also worried about Giroux and Carter; if either of those two get going, things could get ugly, fast.

by VerStig on Jun 7, 2010 11:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

Regardless of the series outcome, they don’t have a whole lot of time to get going.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 8, 2010 12:05 AM CDT up reply actions  

Giroux scoring has been a big difference

among other things, but in this series it’s that 3rd line scoring that seems to make or break it.

You’re probably right about Carter, but I just want to hold my tongue a little on that until we’re proven right.

by VerStig on Jun 8, 2010 12:07 AM CDT up reply actions  

I’m not saying he won’t, and I’m not saying the Hawks will win; I’m saying he only has two games to come alive at the most. It’s not like we’re in the stretch, or even the second round.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 8, 2010 12:32 AM CDT up reply actions  

Although I feel that he is not quite the player that Toews is

Richards definitely scares me every time he is on the ice.

He has a very similar skill set, and plays, perhaps, slightly nastier than our Captain does.

I would be more concerned with Toews, if our team had to play against him, but they don’t (thank the Hockey Gods) and that’s fine.

I don’t believe that he’s been MIA at all. His presence is consistently known from shift to shift during these SCF.

Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.

by Powrfwd37 on Jun 7, 2010 11:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

It's strange

I’m kind of blind to Toews’ awesomeness. I assume he’s awesome, since everyone always talks about him, but I hardly ever notice him doing anything. Maybe I’m red-19 colornumber blind?

It’s this weird blindness of mine that makes me worry about Richards, because I notice him. Destroying. Everything. He took the Flyers on his back and single-handedly destroyed the Canadiens in Game 5. Maybe Toews does that; I don’t know because I can’t see the number 19 on a red background.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 8, 2010 12:08 AM CDT up reply actions  

perhaps it's because you see it all the time?

since we see it throughout the season and whenever he plays, we consider his awesomeness the default level and therefore don’t appreciate it as much as someone who doesn’t watch him all the time.

I think that’s why we’re all so amazed at Buff’s performance. If he was like this all the time, we’d be like, meh, he’s just doing what he does. Instead we’re all essentially asking, “why can’t he be like Tazer and be awesome all year?”

by ahnfire on Jun 8, 2010 12:13 AM CDT up reply actions  

I get this with Keith

but I think that Toews has been kinda sorta shut down a bit, his awesome assist in Game 5 notwithstanding

by VerStig on Jun 8, 2010 12:18 AM CDT up reply actions  

I agree

he’s looked great on board battles, and he’s always working, but he just isn’t quite to the level he was at earlier in the payoffs, or in the Olympics.

by blackhawkeyes on Jun 8, 2010 12:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

game 5 first period

Toews and Hossa were unbefuckinglievably dominant (nothing to show for it, but…)

meeshak, you had to notice that.

Or anytime the guy is on the PK. He’s like an octopus- much bigger/different from Richards that way, IMO.

Gentlemen! I have invented...this thing!

by cliffkoroll on Jun 8, 2010 8:08 AM CDT up reply actions  

I don't know why he wouldn't deserve it

It’s playoff MVP, and there’s no denying that without his play in at least the first four games of this series, it very well could have been a sweep.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 8, 2010 7:33 PM CDT up reply actions  

I think that hit the nail on the head

But I do notice Kane and Hossa, probably because they have the puck for about six hours per shift.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 8, 2010 12:33 AM CDT up reply actions  

Richards is an odd duck

He doesn’t have Toews’ maturity even though he is three years older. He got into it with the Philly media this year about his supposed heavy partying and there were leadership/adjustment struggles with Pronger. (Does Pronger have a rep for undermining teammates?)

Maybe the long seasons and the Olympics are taking a toll on both captains? Pronger was also there but has the experience to pace himself. Wouldn’t surprise me to see Richards at peak ferocity on Wednesday especially if he stays free of Keith. Montreal Game 5 was inspiring but you’re going to look less fearsome when your competition is a few levels higher.

Carter has looked lost most of this series. Hurt still/again? Or just good work by the Hawks.

by flyersfaninchicago on Jun 8, 2010 12:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

pronger also didn’t seem to work his ass off in the olympics as the Toews-Richards-whoeverelse line did…that line carried Team Canada. I don’t know if part of Pronger’s rep is to undermine teammates, but in this case it wouldn’t be a surprise, would it?

Not b/c it’s Pronger, but b/c you’d have the mid-30s best player on a team having to “answer” to a 25-year-old captain who doesn’t dominate the ice half as well as Pronger does. Add Pronger’s “me agaist the establishment” attitude into the mix, and i wouldn’t be surprised if there was some friction there initially.

by puppetmasterp on Jun 8, 2010 1:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

I think it was Nash

it was the Captains line.

Pronger (according to some of the media) was basically brought in to be a sabre rattler/no nonsense kind of force in the locker room. Which might be kind of weird when he’s not the captain, but it seems to have worked out for them.

Watch it with the jinxing!
Time for some thrillin' heroics!

by shinkicker on Jun 8, 2010 6:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

One thing I've noticed

about Richards: he does not have nearly the “steady as she goes” attitude that Capt Serious seems to always project. I like my Capt to be the unflappable rock.

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 8, 2010 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions  

i though he was fairly consistant

until last game. But he looked REALLY dejected in his last post-game interview.

by puppetmasterp on Jun 8, 2010 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions  

that's funny

because I thought Tazer’s been tense throughout this series. Personal interpretation, of course.

But when it was suggested to him that Toews v. Kane seems likely to become a sidebar to every future international hockey tournament, he smiled and said: "I'd like us to win something together, too."

(Tweets @ChiBlackhawks and blogs at Blackhawks Down Low.)

by chiblackhawks on Jun 8, 2010 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

Richards got pushed into Niemi

in the third as Niemi froze the puck and he used it as an excuse to just rape Niemi. He went out of his way to punch him in the head and then use his forearm to drive Niemi’s head into the ice in the goal. The rest of the Hawks were busy dealing with the scrum in front and the only one who saw it was Soupy, who’s not going to do anything to protect his goalie.

by Scott13 on Jun 8, 2010 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions  

I see your comment,

and raise you this piece of sand.

/Note unceasing sarcastic laughter in background.

by burpchelischili on Jun 8, 2010 11:43 PM CDT up reply actions  

I agree

He’s been solid all during the playoffs but didn’t seem to be leading much during the regular season. Who knows what was going on in that locker room with the coaching change, underachievement on the ice and the arrival of alpha Pronger.

I think the captains suit their teams and cities. Chicago is America’s City, heartland values and all that and Toews is a quiet superhero type. Philadelphia has the Bullies and is the CIty of Brotherly Sociopathy and Richards plays that way.

They’re both young first-time finalist captains. Would be normal to feel some pressure.

by flyersfaninchicago on Jun 8, 2010 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions  

I have no problem in the least with anyone discussing it

that probably came across wrong. I’m actually just so excited about the possibility of winning the Cup.

Who’s got the Conn?
Things have really evened out and I suppose we will see many votes for different players. It really has been a team effort by the Hawks. Because of this, even if the Hawks win the Cup I actually have a slight concern that the Hawks players split up the vote and someone else could actually take it.

Turds!
Spaulding, how many times have I spoken to you about your language?

by ChicagoNativeSon on Jun 7, 2010 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

I thought

Toews was running away with it, with Niemi being second until the SCF. Now, I think I would still probably lean toward Toews, but Sharp is making a pretty good case for himself as well. I would consider giving it to Hossa too, if I had a vote.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." -- Alvin Dark

by gwood on Jun 7, 2010 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions  

I understood your point, which is scaring me a little bit.

Totally off topic, but rewatching this first period, yeah, if the Hawks play like they can, the Flyers have no chance. The Hawks held the puck in the Flyers’ zone for 1:30 of the three minutes leading up to Versteeg’s goal, plus the Flyers never established any possession in the Hawks zone, and only had one chance, which was that freak deflection off Hjammer’s skate that Niemi steered wide with his left pad. The Hawks had possession of the puck for probably 2:30 of those previous three minutes, too.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 1:43 PM CDT up reply actions  

I think

Mr. Sulu has the Conn

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 2:18 PM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

Nicely played, sir.

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

took someone long enough

Turds!
Spaulding, how many times have I spoken to you about your language?

by ChicagoNativeSon on Jun 7, 2010 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions  

This post begs for this image

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions  

I think there are three -- maybe four

Hawks that you could argue should get it, and which one ultimately may receive it depends a large part on whether one of that group steps up and delivers some massive heroics in game 6 (PLEASE let it be game 6!).

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'd say don't discuss this yet

like not painting your player on a building with the big shiny trophy when the playoffs haven’t even started yet

Confusion will be my epitaph.

by krome on Jun 7, 2010 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

I have to agree

I definitely have an opinion on this topic, but the superstitious person in me will not let me think (let alone speak) of this topic yet.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." -- Alvin Dark

by gwood on Jun 7, 2010 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions  

The Conn Smythe will be going to a member

of the winning team. If it’s the Hawks, I think it’s a toss up between Toews, Keith and Sharp. The best thing about this is having 3 players in the running so late into the playoffs for the trophy It goes to show how much they’ve played as a team.

Maybe, just once, someone will call me 'Sir' without adding, 'You're making a scene."

by cdz3210 on Jun 7, 2010 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

He was one of the ones I had in my theoretical mix

but as I note, depends on whether — or who — delivers big in a deciding game.

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions  

Puck Daddy (Flyer Cheerleader)

Puck Daddy has fucking Pronger. Tool.

Compadres! It is imperative that we crush the freedom fighters before the start of the rainy season......And by that I mean it’s time for the worker of the week award!"

by HjammerTime on Jun 7, 2010 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions  

He had Toews up there for a long while

before our top line went cold.

We’ll see what happens Wednesday.

Watch it with the jinxing!
Time for some thrillin' heroics!

by shinkicker on Jun 7, 2010 11:34 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions  

I almost forgot about Buff

 but then I think he forgot about playing in the first 4 games of this series. (i’m semi-joking here)

Maybe, just once, someone will call me 'Sir' without adding, 'You're making a scene."

by cdz3210 on Jun 7, 2010 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions  

Conn Smyth

Obviously it will be a tough guess/decision and it will come down to who does best in the next game(s). Toews still has the lead in points with Kane not far behind as well as Sharp. Had Niemi been a little stronger in net the last few games he would be right there. If he shuts down the Flyers it’s possible he’d get it. Lot’s of if’s, where is Murphs what if bell, ding, ding, ding.

Niemi was huge in so many games earlier in the playoffs and also the first couple finals games that without him this series could possibly already be over, and the Sharks series could have gone a few more games. It’s about the overall which is completely different than other sports who pick the best in the finals only. Keith should be right up there as without his leadership on defense things could be completely different.

I think because the captain was so good until this series he still has to be in the lead, and I can’t imagine Pronger even being in the mix for the Flyers, at least not anymore, too many other Flyers have done much more than he has overall, though they wouldn’t be at this stage either without him.

by CaptDirk on Jun 8, 2010 7:08 AM CDT up reply actions  

ummm... the data are not in

lots of people are drawn to this topic. me no likey.

And it’s sooooo ancillary.

A minor quibble, not looking for a fight.

Gentlemen! I have invented...this thing!

by cliffkoroll on Jun 8, 2010 8:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

What about Bolland?

Shut down the Sedins. Shut down HTML. He (and his linemates) scored several key goals. His 11 points 5 on 5 or worse (he has two shorties) are not far behind the team leaders in that category (which is all that should count because he does not get PP time). He is scoring on almost 25% of his shots on goal. If he gets a couple of key points in Game 6 and the Hawks win . . . .

by stanfordron on Jun 8, 2010 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions  

Just don't ask Derek Zona

I don’t know what his problem w/Bolland is…

Sure, his contribution is being overblown by the media, but like I said in my FanPost, the overblown nature of his defensive contribution is more than made up for with timely goal scoring.

by VerStig on Jun 8, 2010 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions  

i'm goin' with confirmation bias

Zona and Reynolds just don’t like the guy.

Funny how Reynolds’ recap went from 1-0 to 3-0. (Wait. How did the Hawks score?)

Those guys do have some funny, intelligent writing and analysis, viz.:

GOAL! Off Pronger’s skate. They deserved that one. Ambiguous pronouns are awesome.

…but for my money, head-to-head +/- and Corsi is way more informative and compact than the scoring chance obsession.

Gentlemen! I have invented...this thing!

by cliffkoroll on Jun 8, 2010 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions  

I wouldn't call it compact

I imagine my tables (the big ones) scare some people away.

I don’t mind the scoring chance stat really; it’s just another angle to the whole “shot quality” thing and it can be done semi-objectively. It only becomes an issue if you try to draw sweeping conclusions from it (although if you look at my earlier posts, I think I’m pretty much guilty of that, too).

by VerStig on Jun 8, 2010 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

ahem

1. compact compared to the scroing chance table. Your tables contin a ton more information.

2. semi-objective? little bit pregnant?

3. A plot of shots and goals tells you a lot more than CORSI or scoring chaces, but it’s kinda irreducible. IMO, CORSI is generally a good stand-in for scoring chances, without the effort or subjectivity.

4. “shots directed at net” and “scoring chances” involve applying the same label to wildly disparate events. Danger Will Robinson.

Gentlemen! I have invented...this thing!

by cliffkoroll on Jun 8, 2010 1:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

I don't know that the great Philly goalie debate matters too much to us

It isn’t a choice between Ryan Miller and Teska Voskala.

I really, really, really hope this ends in 6, I don’t want to suffer through a game 7.

Confusion will be my epitaph.

by krome on Jun 7, 2010 11:01 AM CDT reply actions  

If it's Boucher, however

the Hawks should really focus on the fact that he likely still has trouble moving hard from side to side.

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

Somewhat, but

Leighton appeared most vulnerable (from the prior series games I saw) at the 5-hole from about 45 degrees out to his right.

Moving post-to-post is always going to give all but the very best fits, but when you have a guy recovering from double mcl injuries, I think it’s even more true. Thus needing to test his physical ability.

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions  

Boucher is pretty bad with the puck

I vaguely remember a game where he had a handful of turnovers against the hawks that led to at least 1 easy goal. This was before he was a Flyer

by istolethekishka on Jun 7, 2010 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

Boucher

was very aggressive coming out of his net to play the puck behind the net. I could see where he could easily screw that up.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." -- Alvin Dark

by gwood on Jun 7, 2010 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

Thank you Blackhawks

I was ready to commit murder after the abortion that was presented as a Blackhawk hockey game on Friday. Their improved play last night probably kept me out of Joliet.

by Badgerdano on Jun 7, 2010 11:04 AM CDT reply actions  

My impression in Game 4

was that the Hawks let the abortion that was the officiating get in their heads, taking them completely out of their game. Not to take away from what the Flyers did, but I saw a team more worried about what the refs were or weren’t doing than what the other team was doing.

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions  

more worried about ... the refs

And they were giving up Power Play goals so it was doubly bad…

by DaleHalas on Jun 7, 2010 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions  

It's probably just me

but Niemi has been out of position when the Flyers get the puck down low. He seems to be coming too far out of the net to challenge the shooter and isn’t able to recover in time to get across to cover the other side of the net. There were two instances last night where the Flyers basically had wide open nets and missed (Briere shot wide and I think it was Carter that missed on a backhand and ended up shooting the puck into Niemi’s pads)

Maybe, just once, someone will call me 'Sir' without adding, 'You're making a scene."

by cdz3210 on Jun 7, 2010 11:04 AM CDT reply actions  

He is coming out a ways...

But, twice now in 2 games Sopel was chasing and left the the right side of goal open for tap-ins.

by jscktt on Jun 7, 2010 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions  

yeah not the best game for sopel

anytime you have a wide open clearing attempt, and end up slapping the buck into the one lone remaining guy’s chest, you got a problem

I would like to have seen Montana

by desertindian on Jun 7, 2010 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions  

It's not Niemi

the team is losing sight of all ugly ass orange and black players on rebounds; even on Hartnell’s goal when Niemi should’ve had the puck, Hartnell shouldn’t have been able to just skate right at the net for the tip-in. Even if Niemi had the puck, our team should’ve been back to defend him from the Flyers.

We can’t miss those assignments.

"Half the game is mental; the other half is being mental."

by Polymath7 on Jun 7, 2010 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions  

rebound control

is what I’ve see vanish this series. He struggled with it early against Nashville but seemed to settle himself towards the end of that series. Was solid against Vancouver and great against the Sharks. He just seems to be shitting himself worrying about high shots and letting anything low bounce off him uncontrolled.

by Chris Roberts on Jun 7, 2010 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions  

Maybe it’s a result of an aggressive forecheck? More low shots, possibly, too?

Italian beefs >> Cheesesteak

Regardless of the Series outcome, Chicago dominates on the important points.

by meeshak on Jun 7, 2010 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

still not sold on kop being with toews and hossa

but at this point there’s not really a better alternative….love seeing buff on the checking line with bolland and steeg though…great game, all 4 lines had a jump in their step leading to a start of 7-0 in scoring chances

I would like to have seen Montana

by desertindian on Jun 7, 2010 11:14 AM CDT reply actions  

i'd be up for seeing brouwer or ladd

they don’t have the raw speed of kop..but they can stay up on their skates…thought ladd did good with kane and sharp though, so maybe not worth taking him away from line 2…and the team seems to hate brouwer again

I would like to have seen Montana

by desertindian on Jun 7, 2010 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah but Toews

was very kind to lose his hat as a show of solidarity with his new linemate.

teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.

by 334Rules on Jun 7, 2010 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions  

very true

They won, i’ll cut kop some slack..besides like everyone’s been sayin..you got your pest line, now sporting the biggest guy on the team…arguably your two biggest back checkers are now on a line together, and kane can dangle with sharpie and ladd…makes lavv have a hell of a time trying to match up…

I would like to have seen Montana

by desertindian on Jun 7, 2010 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions  

Kop made the Flyers D skate a lot more

and drew some penalties, so I don’t feel the need to complain about him. I wouldn’t mind seeing Brouwer up there either, though.